TO A REFORMER
Nay, now, if these things that you yearn to teach
Bear wisdom, in your judgment, rich and strong,
Give voice to them though no man heed your speech,
Since right is right though all the world go wrong.
The proof that you believe what you declare
Is that you still stand firm though throngs pass by;
Rather cry truth a lifetime to void air
Than flatter listening millions with one lie!
—Edgar Fawcett.